Loading...

Buy Now Pay Later Laptop Deals

Should I Buy a Windows Laptop, Chromebook, or MacBook?

Buy Now Pay Later Laptop Deals

If you’re in the buy now pay later laptops market for a laptop computer to choose, you will notice right away Windows laptops, MacBooks and Google’s Chromebook PC laptops. All you have to do is browse the pages of any BNPL electronics online store, and you will find dozens of different offerings.




Decide Which Laptop is Best for Me

If you’re in the market for a portable laptop computer, you will notice right away how many options there are to choose from. All you have to do is browse the pages of any online electronics store, and you will find dozens of different offerings from the likes of HP, Dell, Asus, Apple, and more. So, where in the world do you begin?

One way to start sorting through the array of options is to understand some basic differences in features and functionality between the most common types of laptops available: the Windows PC Laptop, MacBook, and Chromebook. These laptops are all portable computers that look similar and are able to do the same basic jobs - to a point. Each has its pros and cons.


Windows Laptop (or Windows PC Laptop)

The most important aspect that sets each type of laptop apart from the rest is the operating system upon which it is built. The most common type of laptop is based on the Windows platform from Microsoft (commonly called a Windows or PC Laptop). In fact, Windows has dominated the laptop market for decades and is the system that most people are familiar with. That is not to say it is the best laptop, but that it is the most ubiquitous - at least for now.

Consider some of the characteristics of Windows PC Laptops:

  • Familiarity. Many people are just plain used to the look and feel of a Windows computer, with its handy Smart button in the lower left corner and folder layout for navigation.
  • Flexibility. Because Windows is so popular, software developers produce more applications for the platform. Products such as Windows Office and other robust software packages are plentiful for the Windows Operating System. These computers are also fairly simple to upgrade, and they are available across a wide range of options and prices.
  • First for Gaming. If you are looking for a gaming laptop, Windows computers support the latest gaming hardware and software innovations. The platform makes customizing and upgrading a computer easier in order to suit the higher demands of gaming.
  • Plug and Play Peripherals. PC Laptops are generally well-suited to adding external devices, such as keyboards, mice, VR components, and the like. They are easily recognized by Windows and operate with little or no effort.
  • Included Antivirus Software. A double-edged sword, the popularity of Windows laptops makes them a ready and frequent target for virus creators than MacBooks and Chromebooks. Fortunately, while you are never completely immune from viruses, Windows PC Laptops come preloaded with antivirus software and are compatible with third party protection programs.

There are a myriad of Windows laptops on the market from which to choose. If you are looking for a basic and affordable laptop to get you started, consider the following Windows laptop models:


ASUS E410 14 inch Laptop - Intel Celeron

1.0 ASUS E410 14 inch Laptop - Intel Celeron

The E410 by Asus is a no-nonsense, everyday notebook PC. It features a budget-friendly Intel Celeron processor and 4GB of RAM to smoothly run programs on the 14-inch HD display. With 64GB of eMMC, the ASUS E410 offers short load times and ample storages.

HP Pavilion X360 2-in-1 14 inch Touch-Screen Laptop

1.1 HP Pavilion X360 2-in-1 14 inch Touch-Screen Laptop

The X360 HP laptop was born to perform. Multitasking is made easy and fast with a high performance Intel Core i5 processor, advanced wireless technology, and long-lasting battery life. Moreover, the X360 features a 2-in-1 touchscreen to allow for both keyboard and touch capability.

Dell Inspiron 7000 2-in-1 13 inch FHD Touch-Screen Laptop

1.2 Dell Inspiron 7000 2-in-1 13 inch FHD Touch-Screen Laptop

The Dell Inspiron Convertible 2-in-1 laptop can handle all of your daily computing tasks. 8GB of RAM reduces slowdowns and improves multitasking across open tabs, and the Intel Core i5 processor allows for power program support. This Dell laptop boasts a 512GB SSD and 32GB intel Optane to store files and programs, while maintaining fast boot up times. Check out our PC Laptops category for more affordable options.

* Prices are as of 2/11/2023


MacBooks

It may be true that Windows laptops win the popularity contest, but that is not to say there is agreement that they are best. Apple finds a large, loyal, and growing fan base due to the speed and dependability of their MacBooks. The MacOS operating system is lightweight and flexible compared to Windows, and it is able to complete complex tasks with ease.

What do MacBook users find attractive?

  • High-end Graphics Capability. For many years, Mac has run at the front of the pack in terms of its graphics ability. Windows laptops have been making strides to catch up, but still, graphics designers prefer Macs because they are easier to use and less prone to compatibility issues. And although MacBooks are not particularly optimized for gaming, still they deliver superior processing power.
  • Simplicity. Although it really depends on personal preference (not to mention familiarity), Apple’s MacOS can be simpler to use than Windows. Therefore, MacBooks offer a clean and simple user experience, especially for those who learn first on a Mac.
  • Apple Ecosystem. Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of owning a MacBook is its compatibility with other Apple devices. Anything from an iPhone to an Apple Watch is able to synchronize seamlessly with a MacBook. What you begin on one device can easily be continued on another. Many Apple devotees enjoy the interconnectivity between their devices in the Apple Ecosystem.
  • Ease of Purchasing. Buying a MacBook has an upside and a downside. On the downside, MacBooks are not cheap. Even the least expensive option is pricier than many higher-end Windows machines. On the flip side, buying a MacBook can be an easier process, since there are not dozens of brands, models, and options to choose from. Apple has a streamlined set of MacBooks to select from.

Consider these MacBook options:


Apple MacBook Pro 13.3 inch Laptop - Intel Core i5

1.3 Apple MacBook Pro 13.3 inch Laptop - Intel Core i5

Loaded with powerful features, such as Thunderbolt I/O technology, FaceTime HD camera, Multi-Touch trackpad and more, the MacBook Pro is a lightning fast and efficient notebook computer. The 13-inch model comes with a 2.5 GHZ Intel Core i5 dual-core processor and an integrated Intel HD Graphics 4000 processor, allowing for smooth operation and long battery life.

Apple MacBook Air 13.3 inch Laptop - Intel Core i5

1.4 Apple MacBook Air 13.3 inch Laptop - Intel Core i5

With its slim design, the MacBook Air allows you to travel light when you are on the go, and yet it still boasts a 13.3 inch wide-screen display and 128GB flash storage. This model also has an Intel Core i5 processor with 8GB of RAM for quick and responsive multitasking.

Apple MacBook Pro 15.4 inch Laptop - Intel Core i7

1.5 Apple MacBook Pro 15.4 inch Laptop - Intel Core i7

With a powerful Intel Core i7 under the hood, the MacBook Pro 15.4 inch laptop offers high end functionality for complex tasks, such as gaming. The large wide-screen display makes for an immersive game play or streaming experience, and the 256GB SSD provides ample storage. Check out our MacBook category for more affordable options.

* Prices are as of 2/11/2023


Chromebooks

Chromebooks are a more recent entry into the laptop market. Based on the Google Chrome operating system, these portable devices are aimed at users who prefer simplicity, speed, and saving money on a quality and affordable laptop. Unlike Windows laptops and MacBooks that employ software programs that reside on the computer, Chromebooks are designed to work with online apps and cloud storage. This allows for more speed and stability, even if they do not have all of the features that Windows and Mac provide.

Why might you consider a Chromebook?

  • Stable and Fast Operation. Because Chromebooks are not designed to do the heavy lifting of a Windows laptop or MacBook, the Chrome OS operating system is lightweight, stable, and very fast. A Chromebook boots up in a matter of seconds, and there is very little lag while it is running. The OS runs smoothly and rarely crashes. Chromebooks also tend to enjoy a longer battery life.
  • Virtually Virus-Free. Chromebooks have built-in antivirus protection that always remains up-to-date. Therefore, there is little worry about malignant intrusion into your computer. There are also fewer virus creators going after Chromebooks than, say, Windows laptops.
  • Low Cost. Chromebooks are simplified laptop computers. They have minimal local storage, are not very useful when offline, do not run photoshop or other video editing software programs, and do not allow for advanced gaming. They are, however, great for simple tasks, especially online operations. Office functions can be accomplished with Google Docs, Sheets, and other applications. And a host of web browsers can be used as portals to the internet with a Chromebook. Due to their limited (albeit super fast and stable) functionality, Chromebooks are significantly less expensive than most Windows laptops and certainly MacBooks.

If you are looking for the simplicity and speed of a Chromebook, consider these models:


ASUS Chromebook 12 - Intel Celeron

1.6 ASUS Chromebook 12 - Intel Celeron

The ASUS Chromebook 12 is a small and simple way to boost productivity - or simply have more fun - all while on the go. This lightweight and compact notebook features an 11.6-inch display and is powered by a budget-friendly dual-core Intel Celeron processor that delivers fantastic performance for popular apps from the Google Play Store.

Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5 Chromebook - 13.3” Touch-Screen Tablet

1.7 Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5 Chromebook - 13.3” Touch-Screen Tablet

The ultra-portable and detachable IdeaPad from Lenovo serves as both a laptop and a tablet. Perfect for work or play with up to 15 hours of battery life, the IdeaPad features a keyboard and 1920x1080 touch-screen. 8GB of memory keeps you working quickly and a 128GB SSD offers plenty of storage.

HP 14 inch 2-in-1 Touchscreen Chromebook - Intel Core i3

1.8 HP 14 inch 2-in-1 Touchscreen Chromebook - Intel Core i3

Surprisingly thin and light, this 1 inch Chromebook delivers power and performance with an Intel Core i3 processor, 8GB of RAM, and 128GB of internal SSD storage. The display also boasts Corning Gorilla Glass and a 360 degree hinge for touch-screen operation and flexibility. Check out our Chromebook category for more affordable options.

* Prices are as of 2/11/2023


Looking for a Laptop?

If you are in the market for a new or pre-owned Windows laptop, MacBook, or Chromebook, buy now and pay later. National Credit Direct offers laptops and computers with easy weekly payments to fit any budget.